Depression: More Than Just A Mood Disorder

A lot of people who don’t have much of an idea about depression, often classify it as a feeling of loss, sadness, or even anger, that can affect a person’s ability to accomplish his or her daily task. Simply put, people think that it’s a mood disorder that can be easily dealt with. But statistics show that one in every ten Americans are affected by depression, and are affected by it in different ways. It can interfere with relationships and work, and lower productivity and lead to chronic health conditions.

Although feeling sadness because of distressful and sad events in life, is a normal experience for everyone, feeling despair and miserable consistently is not normal. Once symptoms are observed, it should be considered as a serious medical condition and that the patient should be treated immediately.

If it’s left untreated, the condition may last longer than necessary, and even worsen. Those who immediately seek treatment however, show signs of improvement in a matter of few weeks.

Different types of depression

There are two common types of depression, namely clinical depression and dysthymia, but there are also other forms of depression. The condition may be classified from serious, mild, to temporary episodes of depression. Even if it’s just short episodes of feeling of sadness or misery, it’s better to seek the help of a doctor so you can easily undergo the necessary treatments for depression.

Clinical Depression

This is the type of depression in its most severe form, and is often characterized by persistent episodes of feeling hopeless, sad, and worthless. The feelings won’t go away easily, nor will they go on their own, with the help of medications. For the diagnosis to be made, symptoms such as significant weight gain or loss, persistent feeling of depression, lose interest in any type of activity, and sluggish movement and thinking, should be observed in a span of two weeks.

Dysthymia

Dysthymia on the other hand, is a chronic, but milder type of depression. Symptoms may persist for more than two years, and can affect the patient’s life more because it usually lasts longer. This may include lack of productivity, issues with self – esteem, and even losing the drive and motivation to do normal activities everyday. People suffering from Dysthymia are often the ones who are consistent in complaining, are always critical, and just can’t seem to find ways to enjoy.

Postpartum depression

This is one form of depression suffered by women who have just given birth. Symptoms include feelings of restlessness and anxiety. Scientific studies conclude that postpartum depression is more imminent during the winter season, when there is lesser natural sunlight compared to other seasons. However, this is only classified as depression if the feeling of ‘baby blues’ last more than four weeks after giving birth.

Depression should be taken seriously as it’s a condition that is not easy to deal with. If you know someone suffering from it, do everything you can to help him or her to the road of recovery.